Who was fired:Norv Turner (56-40 in six seasons, 3-3 in playoffs) and general manager A.J. Smith.

What happened: Turner was lucky to get another season, but when he couldn't deliver a playoff berth for the third straight year, his fate was sealed. Turner took the Chargers to the AFC championship game in his first season, but it’s been downhill ever since. There were several seasons when the Chargers were favored to win the AFC West and failed. Slowly, the Chargers’ talent based eroded and in recent years, Turner’s teams had a damaging habit of blowing leads and giving up huge plays. The Chargers were just 24-24 over the past three seasons. Smith was also fired Monday. He earned a reputation as a tough negotiator who often took a hard line with players. Turner, on the other hand, was popular with his players and had a close relationship with quarterback Philip Rivers. But in the end, Turner simply didn't win enough, and his third chance as a head coach may have been his last.

What’s being said: Turner said he was leaving with his head held high, despite not being very popular in San Diego in recent years. "I think the coach who comes in here will be impressed with the work ethic," Turner said. "I’m proud of what we’ve done."

What's next: With two hires to make, the Chargers will have former Packers general manager Ron Wolf to help their search for a G.M. and coach. The plan is to hire a general manager first, then the coach. Under Smith’s tenure, the Chargers lost a number of players in free agency who enjoyed continued success after leaving San Diego, including Vincent Jackson, Darren Sproles, Drew Brees, LaDainian Tomlinson, Antonio Cromartie and Michael Turner. That talent wasn't replenished enough through the draft and free agency.

What they need: The Chargers need more balance offensively, and more consistent plays on special teams.

How good is the job? One of the best available openings, largely because Rivers has proven he can be one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks. If the next coach can get Rivers back to playing his best, this team could make a quick move.